Other current and historical names
Location and coordinates are for the approximate centre of Rothesay within this administrative area. Geographic features and populated places may cross administrative borders.
Gazetteer of the British Isles (Edinburgh: Bartholomew, 1887). John Bartholomew
Rothesay, watering-place, royal and police burgh, par., and eo. town of Buteshire, on E. side of Bute island, Firth of Clyde, 19 miles SW. of Greenock - par., 6083 ac., pop. 8538; royal and police burgh, pop. 8291; town, pop. 8329; P.O., T.O. 3 Banks, 5 newspapers. Market-day, Wednesday. The town is finely situated at the head of Rothesay Bay, enjoys a mild climate, and is a favourite watering-place and a centre for visiting places on the Clyde. There is a good harbour. There are also fine esplanades, an aquarium, and a hydropathic establishment. Rothesay Castle, founded about 1098, and once a royal residence, stands near the centre of the town. Rothesay gives the title of duke to the heir-apparent of the British throne.